Bright planets adorn both the early evening and predawn skies in July, while our solar system’s fainter members appear best around midnight or after. Within a span of less than 12 hours July 21 and 22, Venus meets Leo’s brightest star after sunset and Jupiter joins Mars in morning twilight. By the end of July, Mercury adds to the predawn drama.

Astronomy magazine subscribers can read the full article for free. Just make sure you're registered with the website.

The full text of this article is available to Astronomy Magazine subscribers only.

Get instant access to subscriber content on Astronomy.com!

Access our interactive Atlas of the Stars

Get full access to StarDome PLUS

Columnist articles

Search and view our equipment review archive

Receive full access to our Ask Astro answers

BONUS web extras not included in the magazine

Much more!

Already a subscriber? Register now!

Registration is FREE and takes only a few seconds to complete. If you are already registered on Astronomy.com, please log in below.